.22 handgun recommendations?

I have pretty much every caliber in a handgun that I want except for a .22. I do borrow/rent them regularly. You just can't beat the cost of the ammo.

But every time I go shopping for a .22, I always find something in a different caliber that I can't resist for about the same money. Sigh.

BUT, I am determined to buy one this year. I want to make a *careful* choice on this considering it's probably the only .22 I'll own. I've looked at/shot several, and can't make a decision (although I have ruled some out completely).

I like Rugers for reliability and accuracy. I like reliability even if I'm not going to use it for self-defense, because clearing jams and the like at the range isn't fun, and my .22s are all about fun (as long as safety is observed first). And a gun that hits what I aim at is also fun.

I have been disappointed in my Sig Mosquito, though a friend of mine has one (a more recent model) that works quite well. Another friend also has a S&W .22 auto (don't recall the exact model name) that he's happy with. I find it has some misfeeds, but it's not too bad.

Depending on your budget, I believe Sig also makes a higher-end .22. If you like revolvers, S&W makes a nice .22 as well.

There will be others along shortly to discuss Buckmarks, Neos, and others.

The S&W Model 41 is the cream of the crop. Just pick one up and you'll know what I mean, it's the most naturally-pointing firearm I've ever held, plus they're wicked accurate. Very pricey, though.

I own a Ruger Mk III, and love it. It's a pain to take down, but resilient enough that I only have to disassemble it about once a month. It's a big, heavy hunk of steel, but as durable as they come, and heavy isn't undesirable for a plinker. I've only been shooting for a few months, and I can drive tacks with it.

For lighter frames, I shot a few while I was deciding on my Ruger, and my favorite of them was either the Browning Buckmark (Aluminum) or the Beretta Neos (Tupperware). Did not enjoy the Walther P22 at all.

GunLady, might want to consider something that compliments your centerfires, such as a SIG with a .22 topend, or a 1911 with a .22 conversion, etc. That way you practice with the same gun as your big bores...

GunLady, might want to consider something that compliments your centerfires, such as a SIG with a .22 topend, or a 1911 with a .22 conversion, etc. That way you practice with the same gun as your big bores...

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I really hate to argue with you but;

If you are referring to a competition mind-set shooter, that may work. (I'm not a competition shooter and wouldn't know.)

But, if you're talking about a fighting mind-set shooter, there is no practice with anything other than your PDWEAPON, chambered in, and using your carry ammo!

If you want to shoot cheap for a plunking weekend of fun by all means, get the conversion kit.

Just don't fool yourself into believing it is Personal Defense training/practice!

Although I posted a pic and recommended a 617, I have other .22s as well including a Sig P220 and a Ruger Mk III Hunter. The reason I highlighted the 617 is this is a gun that you'll proudly pass down to a younger generation. These ain't bad though...

Although I posted a pic and recommended a 617, I have other .22s as well including a Sig P220 and a Ruger Mk III Hunter. The reason I highlighted the 617 is this is a gun that you'll proudly pass down to a younger generation. These ain't bad though...

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You're planning on wearing out your Ruger? My great-grandkids will be shooting mine, most likely.

GunLady, might want to consider something that compliments your centerfires, such as a SIG with a .22 topend, or a 1911 with a .22 conversion, etc. That way you practice with the same gun as your big bores...

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That's an excellent point. I do especially like the conversion plan. However, I hear they're more susceptible to jams. True or not in your experience?

I also see a lot of recommendations on the longer barrels. Pros? Cons?

I have to admit, I've been drooling over one of those. But I just have to choke at the price! Oh, the other guns I could have for that money! (Slaps self and reminds self of the astronomical savings on ammo she'll reap)

I do only have one revolver right now - a s&w 640. Have a killer Bianchi shoulder rig and Bianchi minimalist hip holster for it as well. I adore that outfit!

As far as reliability of the Sig P series in .22, I only have about 700 rounds thru the P220 and NO malfunctions yet. The first day I shot it I put 300 rounds through it just to see if it would act up when dirty - nope. It has eaten CCI and Federal bulk. My Ruger has also been great, I did remove the loaded chamber indicator and mag disconnect though as they tend to affect reliability...

YOU sure NGIB we all know that smiths are cheap junk that are made by a bunch of Clinton loving douche bags. I would sell it to me just to get it out of your safe because it may turn your other guns liberal......